RISHIKESH
General Information
of Rishikesh
Rishikesh is just
24 Kms from Haridwar. Located in the laps of lower Himalayas, this place
is considered to be the access point of three other pilgrim places of
Badrinath - Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri the four great places which
combine to make Chardham . Rishikesh is surrounded by scenic beauty of the
hills on three sides with Holy Ganga flowing through it.
The whole place is considered to be sacred as it is believed that
meditation at this place leads to attainment of salvation. There are many
temples-some ancient, some new along the river Ganges. The River side is
dotted by the ashrams of Sadhus and sages. Rishikesh is also famous for
ashrams teaching Yoga.
In the 60's even the Beatles could not miss the charm of Rishikesh and
they came here to meet their Guru. The Ganga, which is known for its
strong currents and fierce behaviour up stream, suddenly becomes slow and
gracious here. At Rishikesh, Ganga leaves the mountains and joins the
plains for her long journey.
Places Of Interest
Lakshman
Jhula
This suspended iron bridge was build in 1939 and has been a major
attraction among the tourists. Ram Jhula- The other suspended Iron bridge
was recently constructed between Shivanand Ashram and Sawarg Ashram.
Swarga Ashram
One can find numerous temples here. This place has the eating joints and
shops where one can do shopping. The beautiful statues in the area
mesmerise the visitors.
Gita Bhavan
This newly constructed building is famous for its attractive paintings and
statues from the Hindu mythology. Situated just across the Lakshman Jhula.
Triveni Ghat
This is a bathing ghat. Daily in the morning and evening there are
thousands who take bath here and enjoy the Maha Aarti being performed. It
very soothing to sit on the banks of the river and enjoy the cool breeze
from the river.
Neelkanth Mahadev Mela
Situated at a height of 1675 m, on a hill above Swarg Ashram, Neelkanth
Mahadev is one of the most revered temples of Rishikesh.
Nilkanth Mahadeo
Mythology says that in the ancient times when the ocean was being churned
for 'amrit' (Potion for immortality), first venom oozed out. Lord Shiva
drank the venom at a place which is now called Nilkanth Mahadeo. It is 12
kms from Rishikesh and is surrounded by peaceful
forests.
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